On Thursday, March 5, Lone Star Park's parent corporation, Magna Entertainmet Corp. (MEC) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court of the District of Delaware. According to the company, day-to-day operations of the racetracks owned by MEC should not be affected.

Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie President and General Manager Drew Shubeck released the following statement:

"Earlier today, Lone Star Park’s parent corporation Magna Entertainment Corp. (MEC) and some of its subsidiaries announced that they have filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. MEC and the affected subsidiaries are seeking reorganization under Chapter 11 of the federal bankruptcy code to address their current debt situation in such a way as to allow them to emerge from the bankruptcy proceeding stronger and better equipped to respond to future economic challenges.

"It is important to note that Lone Star Park is not among the parties filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and will not be included in the bankruptcy proceeding. As a result, none of Lone Star Park’s accounts or assets will be frozen or negatively affected by this filing. Accordingly, there should be no immediate implications for Lone Star Park, our employees, horsemen, vendors or customers.

"We are proceeding with business as usual with our daily, off-season simulcasting operations in the Post Time Pavilion and the preparations for our 2009 Spring Thoroughbred Spring Meet that opens on Thursday, April 9."

Additionally, on its website, MEC posted the following FAQ for horsemen:

Are horsemen affected by the Chapter 11 filing?

No. During the Chapter 11 restructuring process, MEC’s day-to-day operations are expected to continue without interruption. We will continue to provide the same opportunities to our horsemen as we always have. We have taken a number of measures in and out of court to ensure that this process does not interfere with our normal business operations.

Will I continue to receive my winnings?

Yes. The Chapter 11 filing should have no impact on our ability to pay winnings to horsemen. We are required by law to keep a separate horsemen account that is established solely for paying horsemen winnings. This account will remain an account strictly for horsemen and continue to pay the winnings due in the same manner as before the filing.

How will racing at MEC racetracks be affected by this?

MEC’s racetracks will continue to operate as usual. The Chapter 11 filing itself will not directly impact racing days or purses at any of MEC’s racetracks.

Will I be able continue to use the stabling facilities at MEC racetracks and training centers?

Yes. The Chapter 11 filing will have no impact on your ability to stable at MEC facilities.

The Texas Horsemen's Partnership will continue to update this website with any further developments that could impact our member horsemen.